Rear shock air can service
The air can service is the rear shock equivalent of the fork lower leg service (RockShox specifies ~50 h). The air can is removed, the seals and O-rings are replaced and fresh lubricant is added. It restores the shock's smooth feel and prevents bushing wear. See how often each service is due; and if the shock loses air, that points to something else.
It is the rear shock's frequent maintenance: the back-end sibling of the lower leg service. Cheap compared with letting it chew through the bushings.
What it involves, step by step
Why it matters
The air can holds the air chamber and the lubricant that keeps the shock smooth. As the hours add up, that lubricant gets dirty and dries out, and the seals and O-rings lose their seal. The result is a shock that feels dry and harsh and starts wearing the bushings through friction.
That is why it is a frequent, relatively low-cost service: doing it on time keeps the smooth feel and stops wear from reaching more expensive parts of the shock.
Tell us your shock model and the hours you've run and we'll tell you if it's time. Message us on WhatsApp
Frequently asked questions
What is the air can service?
The rear shock's frequent service, equivalent to the fork lower leg service: the air can is removed, the seals and O-rings are replaced and fresh lubricant is added.
Why do it?
The lubricant dries out and the seals wear; without service, the shock chews through the bushings.
How often?
RockShox specifies ~50 h; bring it forward in dust or mud.
Related
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